Standard Bank secures largest $800m sustainability-linked loan by an African borrower in 2026

We have successfully closed a landmark US$800 million sustainability-linked syndicated loan, marking one of the largest transactions of its kind by an African borrower in 2026 to date.

The deal demonstrates strong international investor appetite and confidence. Initially launched at US$500 million, the facility was significantly oversubscribed, attracting commitments totalling over US$1 billion from a diversified group of 30 banks across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.

Structured as a 2-year loan with an option to extend for a further year, the facility provides us with diversified funding while strengthening our position in international capital markets. This facility features an innovative sustainability-linked structure, with the interest rate directly tied to our performance against 2 key sustainability performance indicators (KPI). These KPIs align with our robust sustainability strategy, focusing on the mobilisation of green finance and social finance, critical pillars for sustainable economic development across Africa.

As Luvuyo Masinda, chief executive officer, Corporate and Investment Banking states: "The success of the transaction highlights the international syndicated loan market’s continued confidence in, and support for, Standard Bank and its Africa’s growth strategy, as reflected in Standard Bank’s purpose statement: 'Africa is our home; we drive her growth'."

The facility was expertly coordinated by Bank of America Europe Designated Activity Company (BofA), Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited, London Branch and Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), with BofA and SCB also serving as joint sustainability coordinators. This collaborative effort underscores the growing importance of integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into mainstream financial products.

This transaction underscores our ability to attract global capital at scale, while embedding sustainability into our funding strategy. The deal provides flexible funding but also publicly affirms our leadership in advancing sustainable finance solutions. It further strengthens our role as a leading financial institution driving inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent, supporting a transition to a low-carbon economy and fostering inclusive growth throughout Africa.